Crew SC trades former All-Star Finlay to Minnesota United

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) -- Columbus Crew SC has traded 2015 MLS All-Star and former US international midfielder Ethan Finlay for allocation money from Minnesota United FC.

Crew SC received $100,000 in targeted allocation money for this season, $250,00 for next season and $75,000 in general allocation money for 2018.

Finlay was selected 10th overall in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft by the black and gold and made 150 regular-season appearances (102 starts) for over six MLS seasons, scoring 30 goals and providing 30 assists.

In 2014, Finlay experienced a breakout season and tied for the team lead in goals (11) and assists (seven). The midfielder was part of the 2015 Crew SC squad that reached MLS Cup 2015, a season in which he recorded a career-high 12 goals and 13 assists in regular-season action. The 2015 season also saw Finlay named to the 2015 AT&T MLS All-Star Game, his first All-Star nod, in addition to MLS Best XI honors. While with Crew SC, Finlay earned three caps with the United States Men’s National Team, making his first appearance for the U.S. in a friendly against Iceland on January 31, 2016 in addition to an appearance in a FIFA World Cup qualification match at MAPFRE Stadium against Guatemala on March 29, 2016.

"Ethan is one of the best professionals that I’ve worked with since joining the club four years ago. He played a big role in defining the club’s style of play and its success on the field," said Sporting Director and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter. "When Minnesota approached us this summer with a substantial offer for his services, we sat down with Ethan and agreed that this was an opportunity that would benefit both his career and the club. As he heads to Minnesota, we wish him the best in the next stage of his career."

The 27-year-old midfielder departs the club as one of only nine players to have made 130 or more regular-season appearances for Crew SC. Finlay is also one of only five players in club history to register at least 30 goals and 30 assists for the club in regular-season action, a group that includes Jeff Cunningham (64 goals, 44 assists), Brian McBride (62 goals, 45 assists), Federico Higuaín (48 goals, 40 assists), Guillermo Barros Schelotto (33 goals, 41 assists) and Justin Meram (33 goals, 33 assists).